East Tennessee State University men’s basketball announced on May 4 that Graham Sandefur has been named the new Director of Basketball Operations. Head coach Brooks Savage said Sandefur will join the coaching staff following his experience at the University of Louisville.
The appointment is significant as it brings additional experience to ETSU’s program. The team looks to build on its standards and expectations for future seasons.
“We are excited to add Graham to our coaching staff,” Savage said on Monday. “Graham was able to gain meaningful experience during his time at Louisville and comes highly recommended from [Louisville Head Coach] Pat Kelsey. He understands the standards and expectations that come with being a part of a championship caliber program.”
Sandefur, who is from Owensboro, Kentucky, most recently served as a graduate manager for Pat Kelsey at Louisville during the 2025-26 season. He previously worked as a student manager for three seasons while an undergraduate at Louisville, where he gained hands-on experience in film breakdown, scouting preparation, equipment logistics, and in-game statistics.
He completed dual bachelor’s degrees in business administration and sport administration in 2025 and is currently pursuing a Master’s of Business Administration at Louisville.
Season ticket renewals for the upcoming 2026-27 season will begin soon according to ETSU officials. More information about ETSU men’s basketball can be found on ETSUBucs.com.
